Sea Cadets, Girlguiding, St John Ambulance, and The Scout Association have joined forces with other national volunteer-based charities, MPs, and civil society leaders to call on the UK Government to introduce 35 hours of paid statutory volunteering leave per year.

In a letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, the coalition highlights the urgent need to support and grow the country’s volunteer workforce. Volunteer participation has dropped to record lows, threatening the sustainability of key community and youth services.

The proposed solution – a statutory right to volunteer leave – would empower employees to engage with local charities, helping to reverse the decline in volunteering and strengthen national social cohesion.

Martin Coles CBE, CEO of Sea Cadets, explained:

“Many employers already offer volunteer leave, but a national policy would level the playing field. This is an opportunity to build a culture of service where everyone has the chance to contribute, without financial penalties.”

The letter has been signed by cross-party MPs and key figures from the third sector, including the Women’s Institute, British Exploring Society, and Dogs for Good, showing broad support for this initiative.

The petition can be signed by clicking here.